Rheumatism? 9 ways you can help relieve the pain yourself

Do you suffer from rheumatism? If so, you probably know better than anyone just how debilitating the pain and symptoms can be. Fortunately, as well as medication and treatments, there are things you can do yourself to relieve the pain. In this article, you’ll find the best tips you can put into practice yourself.

What causes pain in rheumatism?

The symptoms and pain associated with rheumatism can have various causes. In most cases, rheumatism is caused by inflammation in the joints, making them painful, swollen and stiff.

In addition, rheumatism can be triggered by factors such as overexertion, prolonged inactivity, fatigue and muscle tension. The pain can vary from day to day, even in cases of rheumatism at a young age. You cannot prevent all causes of the pain, but there are certain things you can do to reduce or prevent symptoms.

What should you avoid doing if you have this joint condition?

With rheumatism and joint pain, it is important to strike a balance between rest and exercise. Overloading your joints too much can worsen symptoms, but so can a lack of exercise. Furthermore, it is best not to remain in the same position for too long, and it is important to ensure a good quality of sleep.

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Source: Pexels

9 tips to relieve pain caused by rheumatism

1. Get up and move around regularly

Regular exercise is important for keeping your muscles and joints supple. Do, however, choose activities you can manage, such as walking, cycling or swimming. Always build up the intensity gradually and adjust your exercise if symptoms worsen.

2. Make sure you get enough rest

With rheumatism, it’s important to maintain a good balance and not push yourself too hard. So spread your activities throughout the day and make sure to take breaks.

3. Use heat

When you’re experiencing stiffness, applying heat can help to relax your muscles and joints. A warm shower, bath or heat pad can be soothing. But be careful: if you have active inflammation, the heat may actually feel uncomfortable.

4. Eat a varied and healthy diet

Plenty of fruit, vegetables, wholemeal products, healthy fats and proteins help keep your body healthy. There is no specific diet for rheumatism, but eating a varied diet helps support your body.

5. Get enough sleep

Getting enough sleep is very important for proper recovery and pain relief. Regular bedtimes and a quiet bedroom help ensure a better night’s sleep. If you experience pain in bed, a supportive pillow may help.

6. Reduce stress

If you experience prolonged stress, muscle tension can worsen, leading to more pain. Pay close attention to your breathing, get enough gentle exercise, and do relaxation exercises if this works for you.

7. Use aids where necessary

Reduce pressure on your joints by using aids. For example, spread heavy shopping between several bags, use aids when opening jars, and avoid repeating the same movements too often in a short space of time. Some people also benefit from special rheumatism gloves.

8. Try physiotherapy

A physiotherapist can help you improve your mobility, fitness and muscle strength. A programme is usually drawn up so that you can continue to exercise safely whilst also working to reduce your symptoms.

9. Use red light therapy

Apply red light therapy to painful and stiff areas to reduce pain and symptoms. These days, you can easily do this yourself at home.

How does red light therapy help with rheumatism?

Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, can help in various ways with pain symptoms and cellular processes in the body. Here’s how it can help with rheumatism and other joint conditions such as osteoarthritis:

  • Reducing joint pain: photobiomodulation influences the processing of pain signals. It also affects the production of endorphins, thereby reducing pain.
  • Influencing inflammatory processes: red light therapy can reduce inflammation.
  • Supporting energy production in the cells: the red light stimulates the mitochondria, providing the cells with more energy to recover.
  • Reducing stiffness: it improves blood circulation, ensuring a better supply of oxygen and nutrients. This can help keep joints and muscles supple.

Red light therapy from PowerCure

The PowerCure Pro is a red light therapy device that combines red and near-infrared light. This enables it to offer the above benefits for rheumatism and other joint and muscle conditions. The device is designed for home use, allowing you to treat yourself or your family members. It can also be used effectively as a complement to other treatment methods. There are many ways in which you can relieve your rheumatism symptoms!